Leviticus 11:3 – “You may eat any animal that has a divided hoof and that chews the cud.”

Extended Explanation

Leviticus 11:3 provides specific criteria for the types of land animals that the Israelites are permitted to eat. The verse mentions two conditions that must be met for an animal to be considered clean: it must have a divided hoof and chew the cud. Animals that meet both of these criteria were deemed acceptable for consumption under the dietary laws given by God to Israel. This law is a part of a larger section in Leviticus that outlines the rules of clean and unclean animals. These dietary restrictions were not only about health but were also meant to teach the Israelites about purity, obedience, and the importance of distinguishing between what is holy and unholy.

Historical Context

The book of Leviticus is part of the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, and it is attributed to Moses. Leviticus serves as a manual for the newly freed Israelites on how to live as God’s chosen people. The dietary laws given in Leviticus 11 were especially important in the ancient Near East, where various cultures had their own food practices. For Israel, these laws were a clear marker of their identity as a distinct nation, set apart for God. The distinction between clean and unclean animals was not just about health, although some of these laws did have practical benefits; it was primarily about ritual purity and maintaining a special relationship with God.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Leviticus 11:3 points to God’s desire for His people to be holy and set apart. The dietary laws were a means of teaching Israel to discern between what is pure and impure, acceptable and unacceptable. These laws required daily mindfulness and obedience, reminding the Israelites constantly of their covenant relationship with God. Obeying these laws was an act of worship and a demonstration of faithfulness to God’s commands. The principles behind these laws reflect a deeper spiritual truth: God’s people are called to live lives marked by holiness, purity, and distinction from the world around them.

Literary Analysis

Leviticus 11:3 is part of a larger legal code that is laid out in a precise and orderly fashion. The verse is specific and clear, listing exact requirements that must be met for an animal to be considered clean. This precision is characteristic of the legal style found throughout the book of Leviticus. The use of straightforward language, “You may eat any animal that has a divided hoof and that chews the cud,” ensures that the laws were understandable and applicable to everyday life for the Israelites. This direct approach reinforces the authority and clarity of God’s commands.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 14:6: This verse also lists the criteria for clean animals, reinforcing the importance of these dietary laws for Israel.
• Genesis 7:2: During the time of Noah, God instructed him to take clean and unclean animals onto the ark, showing that the distinction between clean and unclean was recognized even before the Law was given.
• Mark 7:18-19: Jesus teaches that it is not what goes into a person that makes them unclean, but what comes out, indicating a new focus on spiritual rather than ceremonial purity.
• Acts 10:14-15: In Peter’s vision, God declares all foods clean, which marks the end of the Old Testament dietary laws and signifies the inclusion of Gentiles into God’s covenant family.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Leviticus 11:3 may seem like an ancient rule with little relevance, but it carries important spiritual lessons. While Christians are not required to follow the Old Testament dietary laws, as Jesus declared all foods clean (Mark 7:19), the principle of living a distinct and holy life still applies. This verse challenges Christians to consider how they can live in a way that honors God, making choices that reflect their commitment to Him. Just as the Israelites were called to be mindful of their diet as a way of showing obedience, Christians are called to be mindful of their actions and choices, ensuring they align with God’s will.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Leviticus 11:3 reflects God’s loving care for His people. By providing specific guidelines on what is clean and unclean, God teaches His people about holiness, discipline, and obedience. These laws were not meant to be burdensome but were given to help Israel live in a way that was pleasing to God and distinct from the surrounding nations. God’s love is evident in His desire to guide His people into a life that is healthy, holy, and blessed. Like a caring parent who sets boundaries for their child’s well-being, God’s laws are given out of love and a desire for His people to flourish.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Leviticus 11:3 and the dietary laws find their fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Jesus taught that it is not what goes into a person’s mouth that makes them unclean but what comes out of it—referring to the words and actions that flow from the heart (Matthew 15:11). In doing so, Jesus shifted the focus from external observance of the law to the internal condition of the heart. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus established a new covenant, one that is based on grace rather than the strict observance of the Law. The Old Testament laws, including dietary restrictions, served as a foreshadowing of the purity and holiness that Christ would bring through His sacrifice.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does it mean to be set apart for God in today’s world?
2. How can Christians apply the principle of discernment between clean and unclean to their spiritual lives?
3. In what ways does understanding the purpose behind Old Testament laws deepen your appreciation for God’s guidance?
4. How does Jesus’ teaching about inner purity challenge your perspective on holiness?
5. How can you live out your faith in a way that reflects your distinct identity as a follower of Christ?

This article on Leviticus 11:3 helps us understand that while the specific dietary laws were given to Israel, the principles of holiness, obedience, and being set apart for God remain relevant to all believers today.